Sydney-based hospitality group Applejack has officially taken over Opera Bar at the Sydney Opera House, marking the start of a 10-year partnership with one of Australia’s most iconic dining destinations.
The group, known for venues including The Butler, RAFI, Forrester’s, and Bopp & Tone, opened Opera Bar this week following a competitive tender process. House Canteen, the all-day eatery also located beneath the Opera House’s famous sails, will follow under Applejack’s management on 2 October.
Co-founders Hamish Watts and Ben Carroll mobilised their team in just six weeks to transform the harbourside venues, introducing locally-driven menus, a refreshed music program, and operational upgrades designed to enhance the visitor experience for the millions who visit annually.
Under the direction of Applejack’s culinary director, Patrick Friesen, Opera Bar’s new menu showcases NSW producers with highlights including an antipasto platter featuring Pino’s mortadella from Kogarah and La Stella mozzarella from Auburn, alongside tiger prawn cocktails with a house collaboration hot sauce from local brand The Fermentalists. The venue’s new pizza program utilises long-fermented dough made with sustainably grown wheat from the Tamworth wheat belt.
House Canteen will serve classic breakfast items and bakery goods alongside lunch dishes with Pan-Asian influences, including coconut chicken curry and grass-fed beef brisket rendang.
“Sydney is the most delicious city in the world, and we want to celebrate the people who make it so,” said Friesen. “We have the incredible opportunity to showcase the producers, growers, and makers who define Sydney’s food culture, from oyster farmers to artisan cheesemakers. We want every dish to celebrate and tell Sydney’s food story.”
The hospitality group has partnered with Arts-Matter to curate Opera Bar’s seven-night weekly music program, featuring live acts and DJs that complement the world-class performances taking place steps away from the Opera House.
Looking ahead, Applejack plans significant changes across both venues. House Canteen will undergo a rebrand in 2026, while Opera Bar is scheduled for a major refurbishment following the Vivid Festival, which runs from May 22 to June 13, 2026.
The company is also introducing updated Tour & Dine packages and new staff uniforms designed by local Australian brands.
